Matchday 3 Round Up - World Rugby U20 Championship

16 June 2016 09:00am

By World Rugby

A first-time finalist is guaranteed at the World Rugby U20 Championship 2016 with Ireland and Argentina set to meet in the first semi-final at the Manchester City Academy Stadium next Monday after overcoming Georgia and Japan respectively.

Both Ireland and Argentina, who finished top of Pool A and C respectively after three victories, have reached the last four once before, Los Pumitas losing to South Africa in 2012 and Ireland to England two years ago. Ironically the two sides they lost to went on to lift the distinctive trophy.

Argentina were the first to book their place in the semi-final with a 39-20 victory over Japan at AJ Bell Stadium to top Pool C and were then joined by Ireland, who overcame 14-man Georgia 35-7 at the Manchester City Academy Stadium to claim the Pool A honours.

England confirmed their place as Pool B winners with a hard-fought 17-13 win over Australia in the final match at AJ Bell Stadium and will now face the best runners-up in South Africa, who claimed a crucial bonus point in seeing off France 40-31 to pip New Zealand.

New Zealand failed to secure a bonus point, only taking the lead against Wales in the 79th minute to win 18-17, and that not only ended their title defence but also meant they will not take part in the semi-finals for the first time in U20 Championship history.